Getty Images: Ryan Brasier Returns to Dodgers with $9 Million Contract
The Los Angeles Dodgers have made a significant move by re-signing Ryan Brasier on February 5. According to Jon Heyman, the Dodgers and Brasier have agreed on a two-year, $9 million deal. With incentives, Brasier has the potential to earn up to $13 million.
Brasier’s return to the Dodgers comes after a tumultuous season. He struggled with the Red Sox, resulting in a 7.29 ERA in 20 appearances and being designated for assignment. However, the Dodgers claimed him off waivers, and he quickly turned his career around. In 39 games, he posted an impressive 0.70 ERA and only allowed one home run.
The Wichita Falls, Texas native showcased his exceptional skills, striking out 38 batters in just 38.2 innings. This was a significant improvement compared to his time in Boston. As a result, the 36-year-old became a crucial asset in the Dodger bullpen.
While it may be unrealistic to expect Brasier to replicate his outstanding numbers from last year, he has proven himself as a dominant reliever in the past. During the 2018 season, he boasted an impressive 1.60 ERA for the Red Sox, contributing to their World Series victory. Unfortunately, his ERA increased to 4.85 the following year.
The Dodgers are taking a gamble, hoping that Brasier can regain his previous form. If he can continue to keep hitters off balance, he will undoubtedly be a go-to arm for manager Dave Roberts in any situation.
Dodgers Boost Bullpen with Return of Brasier
The Los Angeles Dodgers have strengthened their bullpen with the return of reliever Brasier. With his comeback, the team now has a multitude of options for high-pressure situations. Alongside Brasier, Evan Phillips, Brusdar Graterol, and Joe Kelly make up the list of talented pitchers. Brasier’s performance last year demonstrated his ability to thrive under pressure, earning him one save and ten holds.
The Dodgers have shown their belief in Brasier, although specific roles are yet to be determined. During his best season to date, Brasier showcased impressive improvements in his game. His walk rate dropped from 9.5 percent to seven percent, while his ground ball rate increased from 33.3 percent to 51. percent, according to MLB Trade Rumors.
In light of recent moves, Roster Resource predicts that the Dodgers’ Competitive Balance Tax (CBT) for the 2024 season will be $310 Million. Notable free agent additions to the team include outfielders Teoscar Hernández and Jayson Heward, designated hitter Shohei Ohtani, left-hander James Paxton, and right-hander Yoshinobu Yamamoto. Additionally, the team acquired Tyler Glasnow, Manuel Margot, and prospect Trey Sweeney through trades.
Despite the potential for further transactions, the Dodgers have already reached a 110 percent tax rate, as reported by MLB Trade Rumors. With few remaining gaps to fill, it appears that the team’s free agency shopping may have come to a close.
Brasier’s presence on the team is expected to play a crucial role, particularly given the high expectations surrounding the Dodgers. Opponents struggled to hit against him, with a batting average of just .197, the lowest since 2018. This can be attributed to his ability to limit hard contact and induce ground balls. As the 2024 season approaches, Brasier aims to prove that his dominant stretch was no fluke.
Jamie Gatlin, a sports reporter, covers Major League Baseball.